Detroit Tigers: Ryan Kreidler tallies first hit, could he see time at shortstop?

Detroit Tigers prospect Ryan Kreidler collects his first career hit. What’s next?

The Detroit Tigers made the move to call up shortstop Ryan Kreidler. It was part of their September call-ups as rosters expanded. He’s had an injury-riddled season, but the Tigers want to see what he can do.

There is plenty for Ryan Kreidler to prove during his first stint with the Detroit Tigers. So far, he is off to a great start. The youngster has tallied his first hit after a two-hit performance on Sunday for the Tigers.

He was able to draw walks in his debut and shine on the basepaths as well. He finally put it all together in game no. 2, getting that first base knock out of the way. The first hit came on a ground ball to the left side of the infield that did not draw a throw, allowing him to reach safely.

For Kreidler, his second hit came later in Sunday’s contest, dropping one into right field for a bloop single. It was a solid showing for Kreidler, who is making the most of this opportunity early on. In his second game, he even played a couple of innings at shortstop when Javier Báez was pulled.

Detroit Tigers prospect Ryan Kreidler might see more time at shortstop.

While he has only played in two games, the Tigers may be looking to see what he can do around the infield. He has held down the hot corner to start things off, even making a diving play, knocking down the ball, gathering himself, and making the play.

With Báez and his performance in the field, seeing what Kreidler can do may not be the worst idea. Motor City Bengals Site Co-Expert Matthew Scheidel recently explored the idea of moving Báez to second base.

He mentions the lackluster defense and the struggles that Báez has shown in 2022. It might be beneficial to give him a break from the left side of the infield. After all, Kreidler is a primary shortstop, even if he may not be the best option for the Tigers moving forward.

This debut for Kreidler is big for his future. He’s trying to beat the odds and prove he can be an everyday shortstop. The odds are against him, and it feels like he might be better trade bait. But with Al Avila’s firing, the new regime will take a long look and re-evaluate every level of this organization.

Giving Kreidler a chance to prove himself is the best option. After collecting his first hit in the two-hit performance he had on Sunday, he’s off to a good start. Giving him the chance to play some shortstop could be beneficial moving forward.